KTT Hyacinth vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Hyacinth linear switch to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it's clear that each has its own unique features that cater to different preferences. The Hyacinth stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance and single-stage elongated spring, offering a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow lacks standout features and is characterized as a tactile switch. While the Hyacinth may appeal to those seeking a neutral, silky, and subtle typing experience, the Cream Yellow's simplicity may be preferred by those who prioritize a classic tactile feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches differ in terms of their top housing material. The Hyacinth uses a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In terms of aesthetics, the Hyacinth's translucency makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the Cream Yellow's opaque nylon top housing maintains a more classic look.
Both the Hyacinth and Cream Yellow switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to the sound absorption properties of nylon. The qualities of the bottom housing have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. While the differences in top housing materials affect the sound when a key is released, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housings. Overall, the choice between a polycarbonate top housing (Hyacinth) for a crisper sound profile or a nylon top housing (Cream Yellow) for a fuller sound profile will depend on personal preference and desired aesthetics.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and Outemu Cream Yellow switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the Hyacinth's top housing results in a sharper sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Cream Yellow produces a fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, leading to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
Both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force differs between the two switches. The Hyacinth has a bottom out force of 56 grams, while the Cream Yellow has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making the Cream Yellow slightly heavier when it comes to the amount of force needed to fully press a key. Despite this difference, both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of overall force required for typing. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Hyacinth, while those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may lean towards the Cream Yellow. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for each individual user.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, so you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
The Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is known for its neutral profile, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level that is suitable for various settings. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is not available. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth offers a silky typing experience, characterized by exceptional smoothness and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it provides a subtle resistance, ensuring a light and gentle typing feel without a resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feel of the Cream Yellow switch are not provided.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth is praised for its balanced tactile feedback and auditory experience, along with a design choice to enhance user comfort, the Cream Yellow's specific characteristics remain unknown. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound levels, typing smoothness, and tactile feedback. If the Cream Yellow switch is found to have similar characteristics to the Hyacinth based on user reviews or testing, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, subtle typing experience, the Hyacinth may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a tactile bump for feedback, the Cream Yellow could be the switch for you. Both switches have their strengths and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. So, take into account the characteristics of each switch and choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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